A nurse is caring for a 58-year-old patient who has been on prolonged bed rest following abdominal surgery. The patient reports feeling bloated and has not had a bowel movement in 4 days. The nurse understands that immobility affects gastrointestinal function. Which physiological change related to immobility best explains the patient's symptoms?
- Enhanced fluid reabsorption in the small intestine causing dehydration
- Increased sympathetic stimulation promoting rapid intestinal emptying
- Increased gastric acid production leading to mucosal irritation
- Decreased peristalsis resulting in slower transit time and constipation